How Ultra-Processed Foods Impact Kids + Tips to Make Them Eat Healthier

Ultra-processed foods—soft, sweet, and addictive—were designed to make us eat more. This change has made picky eating more common and real food less appealing to kids.

But don’t worry, parents and teachers! Small, practical steps can help kids rediscover healthier foods.

Why Do Kids Prefer Fast Food and Snacks?

Ultra-processed foods, like chips, sugary bars, and fast food, are engineered to be:

• Soft and easy to eat: Kids don’t have to chew much, which bypasses their body’s natural “I’m full” signal.

• Addictive: The flavors, textures, and marketing make these foods irresistible.

• Everywhere: From grocery store aisles to school lunches, processed snacks are hard to avoid.

The result? Kids crave these foods and may struggle to eat vegetables or whole meals.

3 Simple Tips to Make Your Kids Eat Healthier

1. Sneak Favorites Into Healthy Foods

   • Add taco meat over spinach or use celery/apple slices as “forks” to scoop up peanut butter.

2. Make Plates Fun and Colorful

   • Use bright foods like red peppers, yellow corn, green kale, and purple Brussels sprouts. A pretty plate is more exciting!

3. Be a Role Model

   • Try new foods with your kids and talk about the experience:

     • “I liked how crunchy that was!”

     • “This flavor is so new to me!”

Ultra-processed foods may be convenient, but small changes can help your kids build healthier eating habits. Make meals colorful, fun, and engaging—and remember, every step counts!

Want more tips for picky eaters? Follow our blog for practical ideas parents and teachers can use to encourage healthy eating at home and in the classroom!

Want to learn more? Head to BBC iPlayer to watch the full video and discover how food has changed over the years.